Optimization of Magnetic Pump Impeller Based on Blade Load Curve and Internal Flow Study

Abstract

Compared to traditional centrifugal pumps, magnetic pumps are widely used in industries such as chemical, pharmaceutical, and petroleum due to their characteristics of leakage-free operation and the ability to transport toxic and corrosive fluids. However, the efficiency of magnetic pumps is relatively low. Improving the efficiency of pumps helps to reduce energy loss and lower industrial costs. In this study, a magnetic pump was chosen as the research subject. The study aims to improve the efficiency and stability of the magnetic pump by optimizing the impeller blades based on the load curve. A combined approach of a numerical simulation and experimental verification was used to investigate the impact of the anterior loading point (AL), posterior loading point (PL), and slope (SL) in the blade loading curve on the pump’s performance. The slope, which had the most significant impact on pump performance, was selected as the dependent variable to analyze the internal pressure pulsation and main shaft radial force of the magnetic pump. The research found that the hydraulic performance test results of the magnetic pump were in good agreement with the simulation results. When efficiency is used as the optimization objective, the anterior loading point should be moved as far back as possible, and the posterior loading point should be moved as far forward as possible. Through the study of internal pressure fluctuations and radial forces within the pump, the radial force distribution is sequentially as follows: the anterior loading method, posterior loading method, and middle loading method at a rated flow rate. The maximum pressure pulsation amplitude was near the volute casing diffuser area. Compared to the original pump, the optimized magnetic pump showed a 5.05% improvement in hydraulic efficiency under the rated conditions. This research contributes to enhancing the performance and efficiency of magnetic pumps, making them more suitable for various industrial applications.